Kevin Owens is currently in discussions with WWE regarding a new contract, according to sources from FightfulSelect. This news comes with an interesting wrinkle, however. Apparently, AEW is preparing to make a significant offer should Owens become available on the free-agent market.
Would Owens Consider AEW Or Just Leverage Them In Negotiations?
Owens being approached by WWE about an extension trend with recent reports that the company is trying to lock up key talent to new deals. But, unlike some of the names who have recently signed with WWE, Owens has some strong connections to AEW. With many friends there, including The Young Bucks and Adam Cole, the allure of joining the rival promotion has to be somewhat tempting. However, he’s also got close friends in WWE, including Sami Zayn. Insiders believe it’s unlikely that Owens will make the jump.
Still, it wouldn’t hurt Owens to leverage AEW in his negotiations with WWE, assuming WWE offers him less than fair market value.
Owens has established himself as a crucial part of WWE over the past few years. Those close to the situation suggest that he will likely re-sign with WWE, as the company has treated him well and made him a major part of main event storylines. His status within WWE, especially after headlining two WrestleManias has never been higher. The only thing he’s been missing is another title run, but he addressed that in a recent storyline buildup to a match with Cody Rhodes.
AEW Would Love To Add Owens
While there’s a compelling case for Owens to consider AEW, where he could have the chance to work alongside close friends and be pushed as a top player, many see Owens as a “WWE lifer.” Like Seth Rollins, Owens has talked publicly about not wanting to leave and it is believed AEW would need to present an extraordinary offer to lure him away, and even then, he might decline.
Owens has mentioned the possibility of retiring in WWE and there would certainly be a job for him after he hangs up his boots, should he want. If he does decide to retire from in-ring competition in the next few years, a backstage role within WWE seems likely given his popularity and respect among peers.
Fans remember the last round of contract negotiations when Owens was expected to jump to AEW, only to ultimately re-sign with WWE. It seems likely history could repeat itself here.
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